Introduction to Food and Nutrition

Introduction to Food and Nutrition is a video course on Alison published by Amer Taha, a medical health professional, and it is built around evidence rather than diet fashion. Two content modules precede the course assessment. Nutrition Basics defines nutrition, explains how nutrients function and are absorbed in the body, and works through the macronutrients (carbohydrates, fats and proteins) and the micronutrients (vitamins and minerals), including their deficiencies, how to calculate an individual's daily energy needs and how much protein the body requires. Nutrition and Health examines well-known diets such as Atkins, raw food, ketogenic and paleo, weighing their pros, cons and potential deficiencies for health and weight loss, looks at the extra nutrients the body needs when recovering from disease, and teaches you to read the nutrition facts labels that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration requires on packaged food.

Water and electrolytes are covered too. Alison rates the course Beginner Level, lists an average duration of 5 to 6 hours and marks it CPD-accredited; it is offered in English only and is self-paced. The course is free to study. The optional Alison Certificate is paid, in digital or printed form, and a free Learner Record is available after completion.